Minneapolis leads the nation in National Night Out participation for second straight year

For the second consecutive year and fifth time in six years, Minneapolis residents led the nation in participation in National Night Out activities, which help build community and keep our neighborhoods safe. Minneapolis placed first in the nation for the number of National Night Out gatherings held in the city, among cities with populations greater than 300,000, according to the National Association of Town Watch, which sponsors the annual awards. Overall, this is the 11th time that Minneapolis has earned the top ranking.

This year’s National Night Out theme in Minneapolis was “It takes a village, it starts with our block,” and more than 65,000 residents gathered on Aug. 7 at a record 1,219 events in all 83 neighborhoods of the city to celebrate National Night Out. Minneapolis’ effort, which was coordinated by the Minneapolis Police Department and its Crime Prevention Specialists, resulted in activities ranging from small get-togethers in yards to elaborate events in parks and on blocked-off streets.

National Night Out is a crime prevention effort that aims to reduce crime by encouraging neighbors to get to know one another. When people know one another, they are more likely to watch out for one another and call police about suspicious activity. National Night Out activities help build and maintain Minneapolis’ extensive network of neighborhood watch block clubs by giving people an opportunity to get together with neighbors, meet new people and discuss issues.

Major sponsors of Minneapolis’ National Night Out were Target Corporation and Nickelodeon Universe at Mall of America. In addition to the major sponsors, many local businesses also supported block events.